Initial Requirements for Aspiring CNAs in Pennsylvania
Eligibility requirements for aspiring CNAs in the state of Pennsylvania by testing are as follows:
- Graduates from CNA programs approved by the state within the last two (2) years.
- Currently studying as a nurse
- Pennsylvania CNAs with lapsed certificates due to unemployment
- Out of state CNAs with lapsed certificates due to unemployment
Aspiring CNA applicants are required to fill out an application and take an exam from Pearson Vue. Test takers are then added to the state nurse registry once they have passed both portions (written and skills) of the evaluation exam.
Helpful Links:
CNA Certification Verification in PA
One of the requirements in working as a nurse aide in the state of Pennsylvania is to have your CNA certification verified. In order to be considered, applicants must currently be active and have no record of neglect, resident abuse, or misappropriation of property.
Getting Re-certified as a CNA in PA
Getting re-certified as a CNA in Pennsylvania entails 8 hours or more of compensated work as a nurse assistant within two (2) years from the latest certification period from an approved facility which excludes doctors’ offices, self-employment, or private duty jobs. Candidates whose certifications are nearing expiration will receive a notification via mail from Pearson Vue. Once the renewal application has been approved, the applicant will receive a new registry card valid for two (2) years.
Lapsed CNA Certificate Reinstatement in Pennsylvania
A CNA that hasn’t been active for 2 years straight will have his/her status in the nurse registry set to inactive and will be required to retake the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) which is available from Pearson Vue before being eligible for license reinstatement. Please be aware that candidates are only given one (1) chance for retesting.
Out-of-State CNA Certification Transfer to PA
Any candidate from any state within the US is eligible for CNA certification transfer to the state of Pennsylvania if the certification in question is currently active and also in good standing.
If you have additional questions, you may contact the Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry at
Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry
Pennsylvania Department of Health – Division of Nursing Care Facilities
Room 526, Health & Welfare Building, 7th and Forster Street,
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: (800) 852-0518 or (717) 787-1816
The online Nurse Aide Registry is managed by Pearson VUE.
Phone: (800) 852-0518
Fax: (610) 617-9398
